Framing Stud Calculator
Estimate studs, plates, and headers for wall framing.
About This Tool
When to Use This Calculator
Use the Framing Stud Calculator when framing interior or exterior walls — for new construction, room additions, finishing a basement, or building a partition wall. Accurate stud counts prevent extra trips to the lumber yard and help you create a realistic material budget before starting the project. The supplementary framing for corners, intersections, and openings adds up quickly and is easy to underestimate without a calculator.
How It Works
Enter the wall length, stud spacing (16 inches or 24 inches on center), and any door or window openings. The calculator counts the total studs needed, including extras for corners, intersecting walls, headers above openings, jack studs (trimmers), king studs, and cripple studs — the supplementary framing members that are easy to overlook but add up fast on a long wall with multiple openings.
Tips for Best Results
- Standard stud spacing is 16 inches on center for load-bearing walls. Non-load-bearing partition walls may use 24-inch spacing — check with your local building department for requirements.
- Pre-cut studs (92-5/8") are designed for standard 8-foot ceilings when combined with one bottom plate and two top plates. Verify your ceiling height before assuming pre-cuts will work.
- Always add 10–15% to the stud count for waste, warped studs that cannot be used, and cutting mistakes. Studs are inexpensive individually, but a shortage stops the entire crew.
- Use the straightest studs you can find for king studs at door and window openings — any bow in a king stud throws the opening out of plumb, which causes problems when hanging doors and installing trim.